Cryo-EM led analysis of open and closed conformations of Chagas vaccine candidate

Researchers at the University of Nottingham’s School of Biosciences have advanced vaccine development for Chagas disease by expressing and purifying a key enzyme target, TcPOP, in E. coli using the INFORS HT Techfors-S pilot bioreactor. The purified protein enabled structural and immunological characterization, showing parasite-neutralizing activity in mouse models and providing insights into the conformational dynamics of the enzyme. These findings offer a strong foundation for the development of a targeted, protein-based vaccine candidate for a globally neglected tropical disease.